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As the proverb says, “Wisdom cries aloud in the street, in the markets she raises her voice; at the head of the noisy streets she cries out; at the entrance of the city gates she speaks.” This is exactly what George and others, who faithfully preach the truths of God’s kingdom, are doing. I picture King Solomon writing this proverb as he hears prophets of God warn Israel and sojourners in the markets, streets, and city gates of Jerusalem. What a blessed thing to hear truth proclaimed outside the 4 walls of a church building.
From there we joined four others at the St. Patrick's day parade. Many gospel tracts were passed out to the people along the parade route. May hearts be changed by the preaching of the glorious gospel.
“I’m going to give away $20 to whoever can prove to me that they are a good person. We’re going to use a good standard that most everyone agrees with, the Ten Commandments ….” By this time I had a few takers to the challenge. Just that quick … it’s amazing how money instantly draws a crowd. I chose a participant from the crowd and began to ask 3 simple questions to find out if she was a good person. “Chelsea, the first is question is, have you ever told a lie?” “Yes.” “What does that make you? What would you be called?” “A liar.” “That’s correct. Second question, have you ever stolen anything?” “No.” “Even it its small, something from a brother or sister. Something you’ve taken without asking?” “Yes.” “What does that make you?” “A thief.” “Third question, have you ever disobeyed your parents?” “Yes.” “Chelsea, by your own admission you are a liar, a thief, and a rebellious child at heart. You’re not a good person according to God’s law. Chelsea, if you were to stand before God would you be innocent or guilty of breaking His laws?” “Innocent.” “Why is that?” “Because I believe in God.” “Imagine this Chelsea, you are standing in a courtroom, all the evidence is laid out, you are guilty and in a lot of trouble. And you say to the judge ‘your honor, I believe I’m innocent because I believe in you.’ Do you think he is going to let you go Chelsea?” “No.” “It is the same with God; He can’t just simply let you go. The fine for breaking the law must be paid. Chelsea, would you be innocent or guilty of breaking God’s laws?” “Guilty.” “Do you deserve to be punished in hell or rewarded with heaven?” “Hell.” “Let’s go back to the courtroom a second. You’re guilty and a fine of $100,000 has been placed on you, and you don’t have the money to pay for your crimes. Without the money to pay your fine, you are being led off to jail, just then someone that you do not know rushes in to the court room and pays your fine. You are free to go, not because you earned it, but simply because of pure grace. This is what God has done for His people in Jesus Christ. You broke the Law and Jesus paid the fine. Now, it is evident who are God’s people, because they will bring forth fruit of repentance. You must repent (turn from your sins) and trust in Jesus for forgiveness of your sins. Chelsea, you did not prove to be a good person according to God’s law. No one is good but Jesus. As a demonstration of grace, something that you do not deserve, I’m giving you this $20. In the same way, God gives saving grace through his Son Jesus Christ. Folks, there is no hope in yourself. You must repent of your wickedness and hope only in Jesus Christ. My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness. Repent and trust Jesus . . .”
It was a great day. Tracts were passed out, the gospel was preached, and the fellowship was sweet.
